Tony Mowbray’s side got back to winning ways with a convincing 3-0 win at Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night, courtesy of Dan Ballard’s header and two goals from Jack Clarke.
Sunderland still have several players unavailable due to injury setbacks, yet some first-team members could return against The Hornets.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland XI to face Watford at the Stadium of Light:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The Sunderland keeper recorded his third clean sheet of the season in the win over Sheffield Wednesday, when he was forced to make a late save to keep out George Byers’ header. Photo: Frank Reid
2. RB: Trai Hume
Hume has started every league game for Sunderland at right-back this season and linked up well with Patrick Roberts on the flank against Sheffield Wednesday. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Luke O’Nien
The centre-back received plenty of time on the ball against Sheffield Wednesday and completed 90 of his 93 attempted passes (according to Wyscout). Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Dan Ballard
Ballard netted his second goal of the season against Sheffield Wednesday as he headed home Alex Pritchard’s corner to open the scoring. Photo: Frank Reid